Fans of “Grey’s Anatomy” were dealt an emotional blow this week when Dr. Richard Webber, a character cherished by many, revealed his struggle with cancer in the midseason finale. Interestingly, this storyline mirrors real life for actor James Pickens Jr.
In a heartfelt conversation, the 71-year-old actor shared his personal battle with prostate cancer. Speaking to Black Health Matters, Pickens remarked, “It’s not news anyone wants to receive, but prostate cancer is prevalent in my family.”
“My father and several of his brothers faced it,” he continued. “I would have been more surprised if I didn’t get it.”
Pickens has taken a vigilant approach to his health, consistently undergoing annual check-ups for 34 years and beginning PSA screenings at age 41.
In January, his physician noticed elevated PSA levels, prompting a referral to a urologist. An MRI indicated something suspicious.
A subsequent biopsy confirmed the presence of a tumor, but fortunately, the cancer had not metastasized.
Grey’s Anatomy fans were hit hard this week when beloved Dr. Richard Webber revealed in the midseason finale that he’s battling cancer — but it turns out life is imitating art for actor James Pickens Jr.; (pictured 2019)
Pickens Jr. joined the cast of Grey’s Anatomy in its very first season back in 2005 and has been a fixture ever since, earning praise for his portrayal of the hospital’s seasoned Chief of Surgery
The actor opted for a radical prostatectomy, performed robotically by two urologists, which required just a one-day hospital stay.
‘We caught it really early, and so they thought that would be the best route to take. I do have a rare variant that you don’t see very often. They wanted to err on the side of caution and keep an eye on it,’ Pickens explained.
‘It was rare enough that they wanted to make sure that they were crossing all the T’s and dotting all their I’s. But they hadn’t seen one that was detected as early as mine.’
Now, Pickens is using his experience to raise awareness.
He filmed a PSA with Black Health Matters, sharing it widely on social media.
‘One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime,’ he said in the video. ‘For Black men, the risk is even higher.
‘Fortunately, prostate cancer is highly treatable, but early detection is the key, and sometimes there are no noticeable symptoms.
‘For years, I worked with Black Health Matters to urge men to get screened regularly, starting with a simple blood test. Today, I am living proof that early detection works.
A biopsy confirmed a tumor — but thankfully, the cancer hadn’t spread
The actor opted for a radical prostatectomy, performed robotically by two urologists, which required just a one-day hospital stay; (pictured 2025)
‘If you’re Black, or prostate cancer runs in your family, talk to your doctor about getting screened starting at age 40. To learn more, go to blackhealthmatters.com.’
Fans watching Grey’s this week may have felt a lump in their throat at Richard Webber’s storyline — but knowing that Pickens is doing well off-screen adds a hopeful twist to the drama.
Pickens Jr. joined the cast of Grey’s Anatomy in its very first season back in 2005 and has been a fixture ever since, earning praise for his portrayal of the hospital’s seasoned Chief of Surgery.
Over the years, Grey’s Anatomy has become a TV staple, known for its emotional storylines and long-running drama.
Pickens’ character Dr. Webber has mentored countless interns and residents, earning him a spot as a fan favorite for nearly 20 years.
